Reaching for the Stars

More than 135 girls from 14 high schools and 57 career women participated in the Burlington County Advisory Council on Women’s recent mentoring program, “Reach for the Stars.”

“The purpose of the conference was to offer 9th and 10th grade high school students the opportunity to be exposed to a variety of well-paying, nontraditional careers. Exit surveys reflected the students’ enjoyment of the conference,” said co-chair Marilyn Williamson, a member of the Council of Women.

“The number of girls and mentors participating this year was our largest to date as the conference grows in public awareness and popularity,” added co-chair San Lewis-Payne. The conference, held at the County’s Human Services Facility in Westampton on October 28, included 8 workshops and networking with the mentors at lunch. During lunch Freeholder Theresa D. Brown encouraged the girls to follow their dreams and consider involvement in politics to make a difference.

A broad variety of careers and organizations were represented at the conference such as air traffic controller, jet pilot, bank vice president, entrepreneur, construction, environmental engineer, broadcasting and public relations. Organizations who participated included: Lockheed Martin, Holtec International, Medford Leas, NJ State Police, Mount Laurel Fire Department, Courier Post, Federal Aviation Administration, Fort Dix and McGuire Air Force Base, law enforcement officers for the state and county, including Sheriff Jean Stanfield.

High schools participating were: Burlington City, Burlington Township, Burlington County Institute of Technology, Cinnaminson, Delran, Florence, Lenape, Life Center Academy, Maple Shade, Moorestown Friends, Northern Burlington Regional, Pemberton Township, Rancocas Valley, Shawnee.

Sponsors Holtec International and Horizon Pediatric Systems, Inc. underwrote a portion of the costs.

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Author: Press Release